Leland+ Content Library

Start Early, Apply Strong: Successful PhD Timelines

Applying to PhD programs is a long process—and starting early can make all the difference. This session will help you build a strategic timeline to strengthen your application. You’ll learn how to plan each stage, from researching programs and preparing materials to securing recommendations and managing deadlines, while avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re just starting or refining your plan, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap for success.

MBA Recommendation Memo Example for Harvard Business School and Stanford GSB

This memo provides context to the recommenders for the applicant's MBA applications to Harvard Business School (HBS) and Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), outlining her aspirations, important program components (social impact, global perspective, academic rigor), and key qualities sought by the schools.

Wharton Essay 2 — Contribution (First-Gen Background)

A 400-word contribution essay that turns a first-generation background into specific, executable contributions — from M&A case workshops to a 1Gen mentorship program. Annotated with the test every contribution should pass: could someone with a different resume make the same promise?

5 Month Countdown to AMCAS Submission

With less than 6 months to go until AMCAS opening dates, come hear from a seasoned coach on how to maximize the next few months. We'll cover application strategy, timeline, and tips from someone with multiple school acceptances and 10+ program interviews.

Applying as a Non-traditional Applicant

Are you a non-traditional applicant? We break down how to stand out and get into dental school, no matter your background.

Inside the Admissions Process: Featuring Directors from Kellogg, MIT Sloan, Vanderbilt, and Emory

​In Part 3 of this series, admissions directors from Kellogg, Vanderbilt, and Emory will pull back the curtain on how applications are evaluated, what committees prioritize, and the signals that separate strong applicants from the rest. Panelists include Steve Thompson (Senior Director of MBA Admissions @ Kellogg), Katherine Farrar (Associate Director of Admissions @ MIT Sloan), Bailey McChesney (Director of MBA Admissions @ Vanderbilt), and Melissa Rapp (Associate Dean of MBA Admissions @ Emory). ​​You’ll hear directly from decision-makers about how they assess essays, recommendations, test scores, and interviews—plus the common mistakes they see every year. Whether you’re finalizing your application or just getting started, this panel will give you rare, insider insight into the admissions process at top programs and practical strategies to improve your chances of success.

GSB Example Essay: Why Stanford?

This essay outlines an admit's goals in health & wellness venture capital and how Stanford's entrepreneurship programs, leadership training, and Silicon Valley network will help him achieve them.

Wharton Personal Statement — International Healthcare

This essay outlines the admit's goal to build a private hospital in China to address elder care, leveraging Wharton's Healthcare Management, Customer Analytics, Leadership Ventures, and other programs.

Leveraging AI for Job Applications

Learn how to use AI to improve your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for interviews so you can land your dream job faster.

Deferred MBA Application Overview Session [8/12/2026] (Recording)

Are you considering applying for a Deferred MBA program and unsure where to start? Join me, Noah, for an insightful session on navigating the Deferred MBA application process. With extensive experience in admissions at top institutions like the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, I have a deep understanding of what it takes to stand out in the competitive landscape of deferred MBA applications. During this session, we'll cover timelines, target schools, as well as tips & tricks for strengthening your application! Deferred MBA programs are competitive - put your application on the right track before applications open. Whether you're just beginning to explore your options or are ready to dive into the application process, this session will provide valuable insights to guide your journey. Spaces are limited, so be sure to RSVP and secure your spot. I look forward to helping you take the next step toward your MBA goals!

Essays: Learn from Past Admits & Elevate Your Writing [10/2/2026] (Recording)

Part 5 of 6 — Build Your Best MBA Application: One Piece at a Time, a free series (5:00–5:45pm ET). The essays are won before you write them. We'll start with the reflection work that saves weeks of revision later — show, don't tell; specifics beat adjectives; go deep, not wide — and why the anchor essay (Stanford's "What matters most to you, and why?") gets written first, with everything else flowing from it. Then we'll look at real essays from my clients admitted to top programs — full essays, not excerpts: what they wrote, why it worked, and the specific, repeatable moves you can bring into your own drafts. Plus how strong applicants differentiate across schools instead of copy-pasting one narrative, and the v1 → v3/v4 revision ladder my clients run. If you're heading into R1 or R2 drafts, this is the fastest way I know to calibrate what "great" actually looks like.

How to Read Food Labels with Confidence

Are you ready to take control of your health by understanding food labels with confidence? Join me, Rachel, a Board Certified Health Coach and Behavioral Sciences Researcher, for an enlightening session on how to navigate food labels effectively. With a Master's in Public Health from NYU and extensive experience in holistic nutrition, I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their wellness goals through personalized strategies. In this event, we'll explore how reading food labels can be a powerful tool for personal growth, mindfulness, stress management, and anxiety reduction. My background includes creating holistic health programs for medical students and leading health education initiatives at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, improve your health, or develop a sustainable wellness routine, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Spaces are limited, so RSVP now to secure your spot and start your journey towards a healthier, more informed lifestyle!

Sample Resume Metrics

Adding metrics and quantifiable data to your résumé demonstrates your tangible impact and value to potential MBA programs. Use this original list of metrics to clearly highlight your accomplishments.

Networking Strategy for Startups and Tech: Forwardable Emails

Learn how to write the perfect email that gets forwarded to key decision-makers and lands you the job at top startups and tech companies.

Grad School and Fellowships Applications--Steps to Success!

This high level overview of the grad school and fellowships application process helps potential applicants understand how to get started, differences between graduate program and fellowships applications, how to organize the process, what to know about personal statements and essays, how to identify recommenders, and financial considerations.

Inside the Admissions Process: Featuring Directors from Yale, NYU, and Duke

What really happens behind the scenes when you hit “submit” on your MBA application? In Part 1 of this session, admissions directors from Yale SOM, NYU Stern, and Duke Fuqua will pull back the curtain on how applications are evaluated, what committees prioritize, and the signals that separate strong applicants from the rest. Panelists include Bruce DelMonico (Assistant Dean for Admissions @ Yale), Matthew Moll (Director of MBA Admissions @ Stern), and Allison Jamison (Assistant Dean of Admissions @ Duke). ​​You’ll hear directly from decision-makers about how they assess essays, recommendations, test scores, and interviews—plus the common mistakes they see every year. Whether you’re finalizing your application or just getting started, this panel will give you rare, insider insight into the admissions process at top programs and practical strategies to improve your chances of success.

IB Resume Secrets: What Actually Works (and What Doesn't)

​Breaking into investment banking starts with one thing: a resume that grabs attention. But with so many conflicting tips out there, it’s hard to know what really matters to recruiters and deal teams. ​In this session, Ryan T., a former Investment Banker at Wells Fargo Securities with nearly 5 years of experience in healthcare investment banking, will reveal what top firms actually look for in resumes. Ryan has served as Staffer, Recruiting Team Captain, and Manager - interviewing, hiring, and training multiple analyst classes while executing $10B+ in deals across 90+ transactions. He’s also coached 70+ candidates into roles at leading firms, so you won't want to miss his advice! ​You’ll learn how to structure your bullet points for maximum impact, highlight the experiences that truly matter, and avoid the common mistakes that hold applicants back. Whether you’re recruiting for summer analyst positions or full-time roles, this session will give you the insight and clarity to stand out in one of the most competitive fields in finance.

Waitlist Update Letter Builder

• Section 1: Greeting and opening tone • Section 2: New accomplishments or progress since submission • Section 3: Refined clarity on short- and long-term goals • Section 4: Reaffirmed school fit (specific to program culture and resources) • Section 5: Closing statement (gratitude + enthusiasm without pressure) • Example language snippets for each section

MBA Resume – Wealth Management, DEI Leadership, and Community Impact

A polished resume submitted to top MBA programs, highlighting strategic client growth in private banking, national recognition for mentorship and DEI efforts, and deep engagement in financial literacy and nonprofit leadership.

How to Land a Place at Oxford or Cambridge Panel

​Securing a Master's offer from Oxford or Cambridge is one of the most competitive admissions challenges in the world. With rigorous academic standards, unique interview formats, and a highly selective admissions process, standing out requires more than just strong grades. ​In this panel, Adam B. and Zuwena V. with Matthew M. as a moderator will share proven strategies for excelling at every stage of the Master's admissions process for these elite schools. You’ll gain insights into building a strong academic profile, writing a compelling personal statement, preparing for subject-specific assessments, and navigating the interview. Whether you’re just beginning your application or fine-tuning your final materials, this session will give you the clarity and confidence you need to maximize your chances of success at these world-class institutions.